Ann Pilcher Fuqua

Ann Pilcher Fuqua, a devoted educator, world traveler, and beloved matriarch, passed away on February 8, 2026, in Temple, Texas. She was 79 years old.

A Life of Learning and Service

Born on May 2, 1946, in Terrell, Texas, to Polly Anne Miles and Benjamin Luther Pilcher, Ann’s life was defined by a passion for education and her community. A 1964 graduate of Kaufman High School, she attended Henderson County Junior College before transferring to Texas A&M University in 1967. In a testament to her work ethic, she earned both her Bachelor of Science and Master of Education in the same year, 1970.

Ann’s career in education spanned decades and touched countless lives. She held numerous teaching certifications, including Language and Learning Disabilities, Counseling, and Diagnostician. She began her journey as a second-grade teacher in Mumford, Texas, before joining Navasota ISD in 1973. She dedicated 27 years of service to Navasota ISD where she retired as the Director of Special Education in 2000.

Adventure and Heritage

Following her retirement, Ann embraced her spirit of adventure. Alongside her devoted husband, LeGrande Fuqua, she achieved the incredible feat of visiting all seven continents. When she wasn't exploring the world, she was exploring the past. A proud member of The Daughters of the Republic of Texas, Colonial Dames of the 17th Century, and Daughters of the American Revolution, Ann spent over a decade meticulously tracing her genealogy.

Beyond her professional and historical pursuits, Ann was a devoted member of the First Presbyterian Church, a fervent Houston Astros fan, and a talented seamstress. However, it was her role as a loving and devoted grandmother that she cherished above all else.

Family

Ann is preceded in death by her parents, Polly and Benjamin Pilcher, and her sister, Margaret.

Her legacy of love continues through her husband, LeGrande Fuqua; her children and grandchildren, Kathryn Barber, Emily & Madison Barber, and sister-in-law Marie Fuqua; as well as nieces and nephews, Ben Orf, Paula Orf, and Sissy Kentner.

Service Information

A service celebrating Ann’s life will be held this Friday, February 13th, at Nobles Funeral Chapel. Friends and family are invited to a visitation at 1:00 pm, with the funeral service following at 2:00 pm officiated by Rev. Tom Coop. Ann will be laid to rest at Odd Fellows Cemetery in Anderson, Texas, immediately following the service.

The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to James Jefferson, Ethel Jefferson, Nobles Funeral Chapel, and the pallbearers who will be escorting Ann to her final rest: Ben Orf, Brice Jones, Jesse Neuendorff, Matthew Bouliane, Michael Bouliane, and Stephen Weber.